“As soon as the trustee has the consent of another person willing to step into his place, he merely files papers with the court transferring the trust.”
“Does it involve an in-person interview?”
“It may, depending on the court. Not usually, though, since as I said, it is hard to find trustees, so they generally just accept a notarized document.”
“Thank you. That does help.”
“You’re very welcome, and I hope you are able to clear up this mess soon. I take it you are doing your own investigation, since the police seem to have fallen short on their duties?”
“I am. After a few weeks of stumbling around, I think I might have a solid suspect.”
“Good for you. It’s a shame we pay the police to protect us, and then we find ourselves in a position such as yours where you are forced to do their work.” He took another sip of his brandy and shook his head.
William nursed his own brandy, going over the facts in his head. He now needed to learn if a new trustee had been named on Whitney’s estate trust and when that had happened.
Before or after Harding’s death.
CHAPTER 31
Amy yawned as she padded over to the cushioned box on the floor in the corner of her bedchamber. Persephone’s bed had always been at the foot of Amy’s bed, but the dog had been dragging it each day until it sat where it did now. When Amy had tried to move it back, her darling little Pomeranian had growled at her.
She bent down to pet the animal and reared back. From what she could see, it appeared Persephone was going to give birth very shortly.
Amy had scoured the Bath Public Library as well as the bookstore for books on dogs giving birth. One of the early stages of labor was the dog pacing and shaking. Persephone was just climbing out of her box, shaking like a leaf. She began to pace.
Amy panicked.
“Aunt Margaret!” She went flying out of her bedchamber and banged on her aunt’s door.
After a minute or so, Aunt Margaret opened the door, tying the belt to her dressing gown. “For heaven’s sake, Amy, whatever is going on?”
“I think Persephone is about to give birth.” She tried to keep the panic out of her voice, but she was afraid she hadn’t succeeded.
Her aunt leaned against the doorjamb, smiling. “These are very natural things, darling. Don’t worry yourself. Persephone will be fine.”
Amy shook her head. “No! She won’t. We have to do something.”
“I am going to do something. Get dressed, eat my breakfast, and meet with my man of business.”
Amy frowned. “You have a man of business?”
“Yes.” She tapped Amy on the nose. “And I do not wish to be late, so I must get washed and dressed. Don’t be afraid; your little dog knew how to get herself into this situation without your help, so I’m sure she will know how to complete the rest of it.” With those words and a bright smile, she closed the door in Amy’s face.
Aunt Margaret had a man of business. Perhaps Amy should have one too. Right now all her royalties went into the family coffers that her brother managed. It was time for her to be a grown-up and handle her own affairs. Or hire someone to handle her affairs.
Panic again seized her when she realized Aunt Margaret was not going to help. She flew down the stairs and made her way to the kitchen. There was no point in attempting to get her papa or brother to assist her. Perhaps Cook or one of the few maids they employed would be able to help.
“Mrs. Stover, I need your help.” Amy came to a sliding halt at the sight of Cook, busy assembling the family’s breakfast.
The woman offered a cheerful smile. “Good morning, my lady. What is it you need?”
“I need help for Persephone.”
She scowled. “What has that animal done now?” She wiped her forehead with the sleeve of her dress.
“She’s giving birth.”
“Ah. Well, as you can see, I am a tad busy right now. Your father would not be pleased if his breakfast isn’t ready because your dog is giving birth.”